malaigal
Mountains; garlands, necklaces.
Meaning
This word has two distinct meanings depending on the underlying Tamil vowel length. If derived from 'malai' (short 'a'), it refers to mountains, often appearing in descriptions of landscapes or divine abodes. If derived from 'mālai' (long 'a'), it means garlands or necklaces, commonly used to describe adornments for deities or lovers, frequently seen with modifiers like 'muthu' (pearl). Dancers must discern the correct meaning from the surrounding context in the lyrics.
In the songs
Aaninathu malaigal ellam seedhanamai koduthom amme
We gave all the cattle and mountains as dowry, oh mother.
Solla Ariya Swami Malai · Thirikooda Rasappa Kavirayar
kalinil silambu konja kaivalai kulunga muthu malaigal asaiya theru vasalil vandhaan
With anklets jingling on his feet, bangles shaking on his hands, and pearl necklaces swaying, he came to the street door.
Thaye Yashoda · Oothukkadu Venkata Subbaiyer
kalinil silambu konja kaivalai kulunga muthu malaigal asaiya theru vasalil vandhaan
With anklets jingling on his feet, bangles shaking on his hands, and pearl necklaces swaying, he came to the street door.
Thaye Yashoda · Oothukkadu Venkata Subbaiyer